Dear Parents,

The following document contains guidelines for the exclusion of students from Prom or Graduation Ceremonies. In rare cases, school administrators may prohibit students from attending Prom or Graduation Ceremonies, and parents should be aware of the exclusion guidelines.  The month of June is filled with many wonderful school events and ceremonies--it is important that they be kept safe and joyous. 

When would a student be prohibited from Prom or Graduation Ceremonies?

Students may be prohibited from attending a prom or graduation ceremony when he or she poses a real threat of violence or disruption to the event. A student may also be barred from a prom or graduation when his or her conduct has been particularly egregious, and when the student has previously been advised of the exlusion in writing. For example, students who vandalized school buses have been excluded from their graduation ceremony when they had already been notified that such misconduct could result in exclusion. Students who are already on suspension at the time of the prom or graduation may also be prohibited from attending the events, but the exclusion must be proportionate to the infraction committed.

What considerations might be made when deciding to prohibit a student from Prom or Graduation Ceremonies?

In considering whether to exclude students from such one-time events, school administrators consider whether the punishment will further the school’s educational goals. Students may only be prohibited for a specific offense--not a general attitude or feeling.

What responsibilities does the school have when prohibiting students from Prom or Graduation Ceremonies?

All decisions must be fair, and students must be properly notified by their schools. Schools should disseminate guidelines for prom or graduation ceremonies to students and their parents in advance. When exclusion from a prom or graduation is being considered, schools should give the student and his or her parents an opportunity to discuss the underlying facts and the potential disciplinary action before any measures are taken. Since attendance at a prom or graduation ceremony is a privilege, not a right, a full hearing may not be necessary in making the decision.

What responsibilities does the student have?

Students must comply with all school rules and procedures at all times whether in the school building and all Chancellor's Regulations and the Students' Bill of Rights: http://schools.nyc.gov/RulesPolicies/StudentBillofRights/default.htmWhat

What responsibilities does the parent have?

Parents must comply with all school rules and procedures at all times whether in the school building and all Chancellor's Regulations and the Parents' Bill of Rights: http://schools.nyc.gov/RulesPolicies/ParentBillofRights/default.htm

If you have any questions regarding these issues, please contact the Office for Family Engagement and Advocacy at (212) 374-2323.